Black Stars attacker Brandon Thomas-Asante has outlined Ghana’s determination to deliver a campaign worthy of the nation’s expectations when they take to the stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Coventry City forward believes the squad carries both the hopes of millions of supporters and the responsibility of restoring pride after the national team’s difficult outings at the previous two editions of football’s biggest tournament.
Ghana head into the competition seeking to recapture the spirit of their historic 2010 run in South Africa, where they became only the third African nation to reach the quarter-finals and came within a penalty shootout of a place in the semi-finals. Subsequent appearances in Brazil in 2014 and Qatar in 2022, however, ended before the knockout rounds.
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As preparations continue in Cardiff, Thomas-Asante spoke passionately about what it means to represent the four-time African champions on the world stage, describing the opportunity as the fulfilment of a childhood ambition.
“It’s always the biggest privilege, you know. It’s something that, since I was young, when I was going to the games, to pray and to believe and to dream of achieving it one day, and now to be here is incredible,” Thomas-Asante told Ghana FA media.
The striker also acknowledged the unwavering support Ghana receives from fans both at home and across the diaspora, insisting the squad is eager to reward that faith with strong performances.
“I know that there are a lot of people, you know, in Ghana and all around the world that are really wishing us well. So, we want to go and do them proud, and I understand how much it means, and it means so much to me personally,” he added.
Attention now turns to the announcement of Ghana’s final World Cup roster, with head coach Carlos Queiroz expected to confirm his 26-man squad before the team concludes its preparations with a friendly encounter against Wales at Cardiff City Stadium.
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The tournament will mark Ghana’s fifth appearance at the World Cup finals. Drawn in Group L, the Black Stars face a challenging route to the knockout stages, with clashes against Panama, England and Croatia awaiting them.
Ghana will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 before meeting England six days later. Their group-stage journey concludes with a showdown against Croatia on June 27, as the Black Stars seek to write a new chapter in their World Cup history.
